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LOT 177
Outstanding Small Frame 20 Gauge Colt Model 1855 Percussion Revolving Shotgun with Long Barrel - Serial no.
516, 20 gauge, 30 1/8 inch part octagon bbl., brown/blue finish, walnut stock. Only an estimated 500 of these 20 gauge small frame
revolving shotguns were manufactured c. 1860-1863 based on the upscaled Model 1855 Pocket design making this classic shotgun among
the scarcest Colt percussion firearms. On page 201 of “The Book of Colt Firearms,” R.L. Wilson notes that these 20 gauge shotguns are “rare
in any length but 27” inches and that most have the two-line, two-block patent and address markings on the breech. The barrel has a
nickel-silver bead front sight and an under-rib with two pipes holding the main section of the cleaning rod. The top strap groove has “COL.
COLT HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.” The left side of the frame and one of the cylinder flutes have the patent markings. The matching serial number
is visible on the bottom of the frame and toe of the buttplate. It is mounted with a smooth forearm with German silver forend cap and
escutcheons and a multi-point checkered buttstock with blued steel shotgun buttplate.
CONDITION: Excellent with 98% original brown finish on the barrel, 90% bright original high polish blue on the frame with some flaking
areas exhibiting smooth brown patina, and generally only light age and storage related wear. The wood is also excellent and has crisp
checkering, a few minor scratches and dings, and attractive figure, especially on the left side of the butt. Mechanically fine.
Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection.
Estimate: 45,000 - 65,000
According to The Book of Colt Firearms by
Wilson, approximately 500 Colt Model 1855
Revolving shotguns were produced in 20 gauge.